THE FOODIE INC blogposts... it might be as simple as a profile on a food producer, outlet or restaurant; a recipe or top tips for foodie travellers. Occasionally, a guest contributor will share share something about food in their local neighbourhood or favourite holiday spot.

It was surprisingly empty when we arrived. Located on a suburban street in a neighbourhood strip of shops, we anticipated Baker & Co to be buzzing with locals late on a Saturday morning. The quiet didn’t last—people came, ate and went as we wiled away an hour or so catching up over coffee and a scrumptious, freshly baked roast pumpkin, spinach and feta brioche.

The sun streamed in the big front window. White walls, pastel dipped wooden furniture; pretty hanging plants in terracotta pots and a French country-style dresser brimming with packets of pale pink rocky road, create a light and airy space. Set down off West Tamaki Road there’s plenty of parking; the local traffic goes by un-noticed.

Cute hanging plants

Rocky road to go

The cabinet is crammed with enticing savoury brioches, sandwiches, pies and sliders, sweet and savoury tarts, cakes, donuts and slices. Every tasty morsel is made on the premises. Excited to discover a twist on old favourites too: rhubarb and lime Louise slice and lemon meringue donuts, with afghans iced with chocolate and a walnut, just like our Mums used to make.

Afghans like Mum used to make

Lemon meringue dobuts

Baker & Co make tantalising flavoured whole cakes for special occasions from: chocolate and salted caramel to chocolate and raspberry, and raspberry and pistachio too. We spoke briefly to Tasmyn as she put the finishing touches on three delightfully decorated cakes for a 40th birthday party—you could almost feel the love that went into baking those beauties.

Whole cakes made to order

It might be short drive away but definitely worth jumping in the car. Must remember next time to ask Tasmyn about why Baker & Co use disposable plates, cutlery and cups—not that I mind, just a random observation.